Dog Bed Sizing Guide: Getting the Perfect Fit

One of the most common mistakes dog owners make when purchasing a bed is choosing the wrong size. A bed that's too small leaves your dog cramped and uncomfortable, while an excessively large bed might not provide the cosy security some dogs prefer. Getting the sizing right ensures your dog has enough room to stretch out while still feeling snug and supported.

This guide walks you through measuring your dog correctly, understanding different sleeping styles, and matching sizes to breeds—so you can confidently choose a bed that fits perfectly.

How to Measure Your Dog

Accurate measurements are the foundation of proper sizing. Here's how to measure your dog for a bed:

Length Measurement

With your dog standing naturally on all fours, measure from the tip of their nose to the base of their tail (not including the tail). This gives you their body length. For bed sizing, add 15-20 centimetres to this measurement to allow for stretching and comfortable positioning.

Width Measurement

Measure across the widest point of your dog's body, typically the shoulders or hips. For rectangular beds, this helps determine the appropriate width.

Height Consideration

While less critical for bed size, your dog's height matters for beds with bolsters or sides. Measure from the ground to the top of your dog's shoulders to ensure they can comfortably rest their head on raised edges.

Understanding Sleeping Styles

How your dog naturally sleeps affects the ideal bed size and shape.

The Stretcher

Dogs who sleep fully stretched out, often on their sides with legs extended, need the most space. These dogs require beds that accommodate their full length plus extra room. A bed that seems generously sized for a curled dog may be cramped for a stretcher of the same weight.

The Curler

Dogs who curl into tight balls when sleeping need less surface area but may prefer the security of a round or oval bed with sides. Measure your dog while curled—from one paw to the opposite shoulder, then double this number for the minimum diameter.

The Sprawler

Some dogs sleep in a "frog" position with back legs stretched behind and front legs forward. These dogs need rectangular beds with adequate length and width for their splayed positioning.

The Leaner

Dogs who like to sleep against something benefit from beds with bolsters or high sides. Ensure the bolster is tall enough for comfortable head placement without requiring the dog to crane their neck.

Size Categories Explained

Most manufacturers use standard size categories, though exact dimensions vary between brands. Always check specific measurements rather than relying on size names alone.

Small (S)

Typically 50-60cm, suited for dogs under 10kg. Common breeds: Chihuahua, Pomeranian, Maltese, Yorkshire Terrier, Toy Poodle.

Medium (M)

Usually 70-80cm, designed for dogs 10-25kg. Common breeds: Beagle, French Bulldog, Cocker Spaniel, Border Collie, Kelpie.

Large (L)

Generally 90-100cm, appropriate for dogs 25-40kg. Common breeds: Labrador Retriever, Golden Retriever, Australian Shepherd, Boxer.

Extra Large (XL)

Typically 110-120cm or larger, necessary for dogs over 40kg. Common breeds: German Shepherd, Rottweiler, Doberman, Great Dane, Mastiff.

Giant/XXL

For the largest breeds exceeding 50kg who need beds 130cm or more. These dogs often require specialty beds designed for their substantial weight and size.

Breed-Specific Considerations

While individual variation exists, certain breeds have tendencies that affect sizing.

Long-Bodied Breeds

Dachshunds, Basset Hounds, and Corgis have disproportionately long bodies relative to their weight. A bed sized by weight alone may be too short. Prioritise length over the size chart for these breeds.

Deep-Chested Breeds

Greyhounds, Whippets, and similar breeds are tall but lean. They may need a size larger than their weight suggests to accommodate their length when stretched out.

Compact Breeds

Bulldogs and similar breeds are heavy for their length. A weight-appropriate bed usually provides adequate space, though their breathing requirements may benefit from beds without restrictive sides.

Common Sizing Mistakes

Buying for Current Puppy Size

Puppies grow quickly, and a perfectly sized puppy bed becomes too small within months. Research your breed's expected adult size and buy accordingly, or plan to replace the bed as your puppy grows.

Ignoring Weight Capacity

Bed dimensions tell only part of the story. A bed might be large enough but may not support your dog's weight without bottoming out. Check weight limits and choose beds designed for your dog's weight class.

Forgetting About Room

Consider where the bed will go. A bed that's perfect for your dog might not fit in the intended space. Measure your available area before purchasing.

Multi-Dog Households

If you have multiple dogs who share a bed, sizing becomes more complex. Some dogs love sleeping together and will pile onto a shared bed; others prefer their own space. If buying a shared bed, measure as if for a single dog, then add the dimensions of your other dog(s). Consider whether your dogs actually curl up together or just sleep near each other.

Having individual beds for each dog often works better, even if dogs occasionally share. This ensures each dog has a retreat when they need personal space.

Special Sizing Considerations

Senior Dogs

Older dogs with mobility issues may need larger beds than when they were younger and more flexible. They may not curl as tightly and benefit from extra room to find comfortable positions without contorting their joints.

Post-Surgery or Injury

Dogs recovering from surgery, particularly orthopaedic procedures, often need larger beds to accommodate restricted movement and protective cones.

Dogs with Orthopaedic Needs

If your dog has joint issues, ensure the bed is large enough that no part of their body hangs off the supportive surface. Consistent support matters more when managing orthopaedic conditions.

The Bottom Line

When choosing between sizes, err on the side of larger. A slightly too-big bed rarely causes problems, while a too-small bed is uncomfortable and may be abandoned entirely. Take accurate measurements, consider your dog's sleeping style, and don't rely solely on weight charts that may not account for individual variations.

A properly sized bed supports your dog's entire body, allows natural movement during sleep, and provides the sense of security that comes from having a personal space that's truly their own.